The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Air Corps) William G. Standen, United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action while participating as Airplane Commander of a B-29 Superfortress Bomber in the XXI Bomber Command, TWENTIETH Air Force, in action during a bombing mission over Japan on 19 February 1945. Just before reaching the target, the aircraft commanded by Captain Standen suffered critical battle damage from enemy fighter fire. One engine was rendered inoperative, control of the other three engines was lost and Captain Standen received serious injuries. Forced out of formation, he found himself surrounded by highly aggressive enemy fighters. Unable to rejoin his formation, he set his course for the assigned secondary target and succeeded in bombing it alone despite his unattended wounds, continuing fighter attacks, and intense anti-aircraft fire. He then flew the badly damaged aircraft over many hundreds of miles back to his home base where it was necessary to effect and emergency landing because of battle damage. With great coolness and professional skill, Captain Standen effected a safe landing. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army Air Forces.